Club for Old Prague celebrates 125 years of existence
The Club for Old Prague, founded on 28 January 1900, is one of the most important institutions dedicated to the protection of historical and cultural heritage in Prague. At a time of intense redevelopment, when many historic buildings were threatened with demolition, it became a strong voice against the destruction of the city's architectural treasures.
The main figures who led the club were important personalities of the Prague intelligentsia - architects, artists and historians. The club focused on the defense of Prague's architectural and urban values and was actively involved in the fight for the preservation of its historical monuments.
Some of the most important causes in which it has been involved include the preservation of historic houses on the north side of Old Town Square, protection of the Podskalí waterfront, and support for the construction of the Prague Metro instead of a subterranean tramway that could endanger the city’s monuments. The club protested in vain against the demolition of the brutalist Transgas building next to Czech Radio.
Among the current disputes the Club has entered into are discussions about the development around Masaryk Station and the Masaryk Center building. The Club disagrees with what it calls the “megalomaniacal” design of the building and the addition of a tenth floor. The club is also opposed to the proposed method of reconstructing the railway bridge under Vyšehrad.
Today, the Club for Old Prague has over 1,000 members, publishes its own magazine and regularly holds lectures and discussions on historical, architectural and urban planning issues.
